1997 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,669 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (302 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2004 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 260 kg more than 2004 Saturn L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Pontiac Firebird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (453 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn L. 2004 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Firebird | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Pontiac | Saturn |
| Model | Firebird | L |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5669 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 453 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
